Email updates are an essential part of the college recruiting process for high school swimmers. They keep you on a coach’s radar, showcase your progress, and provide a chance to build rapport. But these emails don’t need to be one-sided. Taking an interest in the coach’s team and recruiting efforts shows you’re not just looking for a spot—you’re looking for a program that fits you. This guide explains what to include in your email updates, from time drops and upcoming meets to thoughtful questions about the coach’s team and season.
Why Email Updates Are Important
College coaches juggle dozens (if not hundreds) of potential recruits, and they can’t keep track of everyone’s progress without help. Regular email updates help you stand out by showing your growth, dedication, and genuine interest in their program. Plus, asking thoughtful questions about the coach’s season or recruiting process adds a personal touch that can make a lasting impression.
How Often to Email Coaches
If a coach doesn’t hear from you for months, they may make the assumption that you have moved on to other schools. You should email a coach at least once a month to keep your recruiting conversation warm. If you have significant news or an exciting update, do not hesitate to email them more than once a month. But, do not bombard them with emails that have no substance.
What to Include in Your Email Updates
1. Ask About Their Season or Recruiting Class Show genuine interest in the coach and their team by asking how their season is going or how their recruiting efforts are shaping up. Coaches are human, too—they appreciate when recruits engage in meaningful conversation.
Example: “Dear Coach Smith, I’ve been following your team’s results this season, and it looks like your relays are already faster than last season. How is the rest of the season going for you? How is this year’s recruiting class coming along?”
2. Upcoming Meets Let the coach know where and when you’ll be competing, and specify which events you’ll be swimming. This helps them follow your progress and plan opportunities to watch you race.
Example: “I wanted to let you know that I’ll be competing in the State Championships next weekend in Denver. I’m swimming the 100Y Fly and the 200Y Free. I’ll make sure to send you my results after the meet!”
3. Recent Time Drops or Meet Results Share specific details about your recent performances, especially personal bests or any improvements. This gives coaches a clear picture of your development.
Example: “I recently competed at the Mid-Atlantic Invitational and dropped 0.8 seconds in my 100Y back, a new PB of 0:57.42. I’m really happy with my progress this season and excited to keep building from here.”
4. Training Updates If you’ve made any notable changes to your training, such as new focus areas or increased intensity, let the coach know. This gives them insight into your work ethic and preparation.
Example: “We’ve recently shifted to more power work in practice, and I’ve seen a lot of improvement in my underwaters and even my finishes. I’m excited to see how this translates at my next meet.”
5. Academic Achievements Share any notable academic milestones or awards that reflect your commitment to excelling both in the classroom and in the pool.
Example: “I’m excited to share that I scored a 1400 on my SAT and was recently named to my school’s Honor Roll for the fifth consecutive semester with a 3.95 GPA.”
6. Personal Updates Briefly mention other extracurricular activities or personal milestones that show you’re a well-rounded student-athlete.
Example: “Outside of swimming, I’ve been volunteering with my school’s environmental club to help clean up local parks. It’s been a great way to give back to the community.”
Why Asking Questions Matters
Including questions in your email not only makes the conversation more engaging but also shows that you’re genuinely interested in their program and its culture. Here are some ideas for thoughtful questions:
“What has been the biggest highlight of your team’s season so far?”
“How do you see this year’s recruiting class shaping up?”
“How do you think conference championships will go this year?”
Tips for Crafting Effective Email Updates
Be Concise and Clear: Stick to the most relevant points—coaches are busy.
Personalize the Email: Use the coach’s name and reference something specific about their program to show genuine interest.
Provide Context: When sharing times or training updates, explain how they reflect your progress.
Include Links or Attachments: Share meet results or highlight videos if appropriate.
Keep the Conversation Open: Conclude your email with an invitation for the coach to share updates about their team or recruiting efforts.
